62 arrested in fake TTC Metropass sweep

More than 60 people are arrested across Toronto in connection with counterfeit TTC passes. 2:09

More than 60 people have been arrested following a five-month investigation into counterfeit TTC passes.

The arrests took place across the city — both on vehicles and at subway stations including Dufferin and Scarborough Town Centre — leading to almost 200 criminal charges, the TTC and Toronto Police Service said today.

"The TTC takes fare evasion very seriously," said TTC spokesman Brad Ross at a news conference this afternoon.

"Anyone using counterfeit Metropasses should beware — you will be caught."

Fake passes and tokens combined cost the TTC an estimated $5 million per year, said Ross.

The fake passes on display this afternoon were being sold at half the normal price, among friends and by word of mouth.

They are glossy on both sides — unlike proper Metropasses, which have a matte finish on the back — and do not work in turnstiles.

The investigation was aided by fare collectors who noticed subway riders who avoided going through the turnstiles.

Staff Sgt. Mark Russell of the TTC Special Investigations Unit explains how to spot a fake Metropass. The fakes are glossy on both sides — unlike proper passes, which have a matte finish on the back — and do not work in turnstiles. (CBC)

"The blue passes for December was our largest seizure," said Const. Bob Moynagh of the TPS Transit Patrol.

"That was from a person who … upon being searched was found to be in possession of 56 counterfeit Metropasses."